Rena Riffel Clears Up The ‘Showgirls’ Sequel Confusion

A few weeks ago we learned that plans are in the works for a sequel film to the cult movie classic Showgirls which would, supposedly pick up where the first movie left off. Just about a week later, we learned that another Showgirls sequel was in the works which would feature a totally different storyline than that of the previously announced sequel. Are these two movies one and the same? Or are there two different Showgirls sequels on the way? To clear up the matter, original Showgirls actress Rena Riffel (who played Penny Slot/Hope) has released a public statement addressing the two sequels and clarifies what her involvement is with one of the two films:

“Some media outlets have been reporting and posting about a SHOWGIRLS follow-up feature called SHOWGIRLS 2, which I am not affiliated with, in any way, shape or form. I’ll admit, I was contacted by the German SHOWGIRLS fan-turned-’Hollywood director’ to star in his first feature film. However, it was so horrifically graphic and out of the show’s original story theme that I needed to withdraw from those talks. I am officially working on my own SHOWGIRLS follow-up feature film. Recently, I posted a short sequel “teaser” on YouTube, which I wrote and directed myself. The teaser is very different than my feature film screenplay, but I wanted to get the ball rolling and have some fun because everyone seems to be so excited, including me! My film is titled SHOWGIRL, being that I am the last and only “showgirl” still keeping that flame alive. It’s sort of a…”What ever happened to Penny Hope?” – fifteen years later, story. SHOWGIRL is my take on what becomes of a thirty-something year-old stripper who is still obsessed with dancing and fame. We are planning on shooting this coming summer and are still searching for a few of our leading and supporting characters to round out the cast. SHOWGIRLS’ fans will be pleased to learn that some of the original cast members have agreed to be in SHOWGIRL, and some of my MULHULLAND DRIVE cast members will appear as well. It is my hope to work with my SHOWGIRLS friends Gina Gershon and Elizabeth Berkley again too. And, I am even thinking about giving my former STRIPTEASE co-star friend Demi Moore a call. You could say I’m pulling a “Barbra Streisand.” SHOWGIRL is my YENTL, because I will be writing, directing and starring! We are securing major funding and working with top production talent, like the original post production team who did the original SHOWGIRLS. It’s pretty exciting and amazing. Stay tuned for more news coming soon!”

Please visit www.showgirlthemovie.com for more information.

Well that clears up things nicely. The plan for Showgirls 2 seems entirely shoddy while plans for Showgirl, starring Riffel, sounds deliciously and terribly fun!! If Riffel does manage to get Elizabeth Berkley and/or Gina Gershon to cameo it would be A HIT (with fans, that is)!!! I am really excited … even if the movie is a bomb, I’d expect no less from a sequel to one of the best box office bombs of all time. I’m SO on Team Rena! The Showgirl must go on! To refresh our memories, check out the trailer for Rena Riffel‘s Showgirl after the jump …